Measurement and Modeling of Electro-Chemical Properties of Ion Polymer Metal Composite by Complex Impedance Analysis

Abstract

The electrochemical and electromechanical characteristics of ion polymer metal composite (IPMC) are inves- tigated using impedance analysis. The capacitance and resistance of IPMC are measured with various IPMC thicknesses, plating repetitions, and preheating times, which are the contributing factors of force generation. The generated force of IPMC increases with increasing IPMC thickness, number of plating repetitions, and extended preheating time. IPMC capacitance correlates with the generated force in all three cases, whereas IPMC resistance shows an independent change. These results show a strong correlation of the generated force of IPMC to its capacitance and structure and to the condi- tions for the IPMC fabrication process that increase its capacitance.